Photo courtesy of Lairdie Kells Westbrook-Walnut Grove Elementary students displayed the patriotic quilts they helped make to celebrate the U.S.'s 250th anniversary. Students used stencils and paint for the quilt block designs.

WALNUT GROVE — The United States’ 250th anniversary was a unique chance to celebrate, and to learn about American history, Westbrook-Walnut Grove Elementary staff said. This spring, the whole elementary school have been joining in on the celebrations.

On Thursday, WWG students in kindergarten through sixth grade will be marching in a 250th anniversary parade in Walnut Grove. The parade is a new event for the elementary school, and one that kids are excited for, said WWG teacher Lairdie Kells.

“It’s starting to ramp up,” Kells said of preparations for the event. “It’s going to be fun.”

The public are welcome to watch the parade, which will start at the elementary school at 2 p.m. and travel down Main Street in Walnut Grove. A short musical program will follow the parade.

The parade is just one of the patriotic activities WWG Elementary is taking part in this spring. Staff said elementary students have been doing a variety of art and educational projects celebrating the nation’s birthday. Students have been learning about American history and symbols. There’s plenty of red, white and blue visible around the school, with decorations students and staff made for the anniversary. Students in fourth, fifth and sixth grade also worked together on a special project to make two patriotic quilts.

Students used paint and stencils to make blocks featuring patriotic designs, which Karla Gunderman then sewed together into quilt tops, the WWG Elementary website said. Students will tie and knot the layers of the quilts together.

There were also a lot of preparations for the parade. Last week, students decorated wagons in patriotic themes. When the parade starts, older students will be pulling their younger siblings in the wagons. Teachers and community members will also be joining the fun, Kells said.

The parade won’t be the only 250th celebration at WWG Elementary. School staff said a Family Day celebration will be held Wednesday for students. The event will include birthday cake, and patriotic-themed activities.

WWG Elementary staff said the celebrations wouldn’t be possible without community support. The school thanks groups like the Westbrook Area Volunteers, the Women’s Club and the Loggers for their support of the 250th anniversary events.